Hello Nicole,

Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns. We understand that people hold a wide range of views on dissection, and we respect that these topics can be emotionally and ethically complex. I’d like to offer some clarity about our practices at Terranaut Club and why these activities are included in our environmental education programming.

First, I want to be absolutely clear, Terranaut Club does not support the killing of animals solely for dissection, nor do we collect or harm animals for the purpose of our programs.

How We Source Specimens:

1. Commercial by‑catch sources
These include animals, mainly fish that have already harvested for food. We use specimens that would otherwise be discarded, giving them a secondary educational purpose.

2. Legally mandated invasive‑species removals (Parks Canada partnerships)
Species such as chain pickerel are already removed to protect native ecosystems. Using these organisms in our programming helps students understand ecology, invasive species management, and environmental stewardship.

Why Hands‑On Learning Matters:

We’ve included several sources below, and we encourage you to explore them if you’d like to learn more. To make things easier, we’ve also provided a brief summary of each: 

DoDEA — “Why Dissection Remains Vital in Science Classrooms”

https://www.dodea.edu/news/articles/hands-learning-why-dissection-remains-vital-science-classrooms
This article highlights how many students understand anatomy more effectively through physical interaction with real specimens. It states that hands‑on work “turns abstract lessons into tangible discoveries” and can even ignite interest in science and health careers. 

VITTA Education —“The Importance of Biology Dissection in Education”
https://vittaeducation.com/the-importance-of-dissection-in-biology/
This summary emphasizes that there is “no substitute for the tangible understanding of how an organism works” that dissection provides, especially for kinesthetic learners who learn best through touch. 

University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point — Environmental Literacy Study
https://minds.wisconsin.edu/handle/1793/81911
This study reported a 22% increase in environmental literacy, along with gains in empathy and stewardship, after hands‑on learning experiences. These outcomes align directly with our mission here at Terranaut Club.

American Physiological Society — VR vs. Live Dissection Study
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/advan.00170.2024
This research shows that while VR and other online tools are a helpful supplement, about 80% of students still recognized the value of dissection, with many preferring it after experiencing both methods.

Our Approach:

We stay current on alternatives and fully acknowledge that non‑animal methods can meet certain learning goals. However, because our specimens come from by‑catch or invasive‑species removal — animals already deceased — we feel we can offer the best of both worlds. A second purpose for the organism, and a powerful hands‑on experience that builds confidence, scientific skills, and environmental understanding. 

Beyond the research, we see the impact every day in our programs. When students have the chance to work directly with real specimens, they become more engaged, ask deeper questions, and build confidence in their own abilities. These hands‑on activities help them make meaningful connections between science, ecosystems, and the environment around them. Families often tell us they notice their children becoming more curious, thoughtful, and environmentally aware after participating — outcomes we’re incredibly proud to support.

Respectfully, we ask that our small non-profit organization be given the space to continue providing high‑quality STEM and environmental education. We welcome dialogue and differing perspectives, but public petitions or assumptions about our intent can be harmful to an organization working very hard to offer meaningful and financially accessible opportunities to youth in our communities.

Thank you again for reaching out and for caring about both animal welfare and youth education.

Warm regards,

Hunter Hogan
(she / her)
Interim Director